Collision Theory

Part of the Energy, Rates and Equilibrium section of Coddy's Chemistry journey. Lesson 15 of 35.

Particles react only when they collide with at least the activation energy E_a.

Faster reactions: more frequent collisions, or more collisions with enough energy.

The rate is the amount formed or used up per unit of time.

$\text{rate} = \frac{\text{amount}}{\text{time}}$

Challenge

For a reaction, $\Delta H = -50\ \mathrm{kJ}$ , and a collision reacts only if it brings at least $80\ \mathrm{kJ}$ . Draw the energy diagram.

Try it yourself

Energy diagramDraw the energy diagram

Test yourself

This lesson includes a short quiz. Start the lesson to answer it and track your progress.

All lessons in Energy, Rates and Equilibrium

1Energy in Reactions

4Rates of Reaction

7Practice Problems

2Bond Energies

5Equilibrium

3Changes of State

6Changing an Equilibrium